To canvass means to go through an area systematically, asking people questions or trying to persuade them about something. During elections, volunteers canvass neighborhoods by knocking on doors to talk with voters about candidates. A student council representative might canvass the cafeteria to gather opinions about a school dance theme.

When a committee canvasses different options for a field trip, they carefully consider each possibility. After a close vote, election officials might canvass the results, meaning they carefully review and verify every ballot to ensure accuracy.

Canvassing requires persistence and organization. You can't just ask a few friends their opinion and call it done. Real canvassing means covering an entire area or group methodically. Someone canvassing for a petition needs to approach strangers, explain their cause clearly, and keep careful records of responses. Door-to-door salespeople canvass neighborhoods. Researchers canvass communities to understand public opinion.

The word also appears in canvass for, meaning to actively seek support: a candidate might canvass for votes, or a club president might canvass for volunteers to help with an event. Think of canvassing as a thorough, organized approach to gathering information or support, rather than just casual asking around.